Nagaland Girls Shine at Khelo India Pencak Silat Women’s League, Bag 10 Medals
Nagaland Girls Shine at Khelo India Pencak Silat Women’s League, Bag 10 Medals
In a landmark achievement for Nagaland and women’s sports in India, the state’s Pencak Silat girls team clinched an impressive 10 medals at the ASMITA Khelo India National Ranking Pencak Silat Women’s League held in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir.
The national event, organized by the Indian Pencak Silat Federation, took place from April 5 to 8 at the Sher-i-Kashmir Indoor Sports Complex, attracting top-tier athletes from across India. Representing Nagaland were six outstanding female athletes, under the leadership of Head Coach and General Secretary Deep Kumar, who delivered a commendable all-round performance in both Tanding (Sparring) and Artistic categories.
Medal Tally: Nagaland’s Standout Performers
Tanding (Sparring) Category:
- 🥇 Liike Kibami – Gold
- 🥇 Avikali V. Shequi – Gold
- 🥈 Niya Thono – Silver
- 🥉 Hatneinem Khongsai – Bronze
- 🥉 Hinokali – Bronze
Artistic Category:
- 🥈 Liike Kibami & Hatneinem Khongsai – Silver (Ganda event)
- 🥉 Hinokali, Avikali V. Shequi & Liike Kibami – Bronze (Regu event)
The multi-medal haul not only boosted the morale of the team but also put Nagaland firmly on the map in terms of national-level martial arts competition.
Zonal Success Set the Stage
These achievements were built on the foundation of success at the ASMITA Khelo India Pencak Silat Women’s League – North East Zone, held on March 17–18 in Dimapur. Hosted by the Nagaland Pencak Silat Association, the zonal event served as a key preparation ground, honing the athletes’ skills and confidence before the national-level meet.
What Is Pencak Silat?
Pencak Silat is a Southeast Asian martial art known for its dynamic movements and discipline, combining self-defense with artistic expression. Though relatively new in India, it has found strong roots in the northeast, especially in Nagaland where young girls are embracing the sport with passion and skill.
ASMITA: Empowering Women Through Sport
The ASMITA Khelo India Women’s League is an initiative by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, supported by the Sports Authority of India (SAI). It aims to promote greater female participation in sports, from grassroots to elite levels. By providing a structured competitive platform, the league empowers young girls to pursue sports as a viable career and lifestyle.
Voices from the Camp
Deep Kumar, the team’s head coach, expressed his pride in the team’s performance, stating:
“Our girls have proven that discipline, training, and dedication can yield great results. Their achievement is not only for Nagaland but for all girls across India aspiring to excel in martial arts.”
Team member and gold medalist Liike Kibami shared her excitement:
“Standing on the podium was a dream come true. Representing Nagaland at the national level and winning for my state is a moment I will never forget.”
Rising Role of Women in Sports from Northeast India
This success story adds to the growing list of achievements by female athletes from the Northeast, who are increasingly making headlines in national and international sports arenas. Whether it’s boxing, weightlifting, football, or martial arts, the region is fast emerging as a powerhouse of female sporting talent.